Using a vagal stimulator to reduce the need for nasogastric tubes after surgery
Official title: The Role of a Vagal Stimulator to Reduce the Frequency and Duration on Nasogastric Tube Following Abdominal Surgery
Run by University of Pittsburgh · NCT06648759 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing if a vagal nerve stimulator can help adults recover from surgery faster and reduce the need for uncomfortable feeding tubes.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Pittsburgh Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | December 4, 2024 |
| Main results expected | December 2026 |
| Study ends | January 2027 |
| Registry record updated | November 5, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT06648759 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates include adults aged 18 and older who are undergoing laparoscopic or open colorectal surgery and are expected to develop postoperative ileus.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients who are pregnant, unable to communicate in English, or have cognitive impairments may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This clinical trial investigates the use of a vagal nerve stimulator to alleviate postoperative ileus (POI) in adults undergoing major abdominal surgeries. POI is a common complication that can lead to the need for nasogastric tube placement, which can cause discomfort and prolong hospital stays. The study aims to determine if non-invasive vagal stimulation can facilitate the resolution of POI, thereby reducing the reliance on nasogastric tubes. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either the vagal nerve stimulator or a placebo to assess the effectiveness of the intervention.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly reduce the need for nasogastric tubes, minimizing patient discomfort and shortening hospital stays.
How similar studies have gone: While the use of vagal nerve stimulation is a novel approach in this context, anecdotal evidence suggests it may successfully reduce the need for nasogastric tubes in similar situations.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Adults (18 and older) undergoing laparoscopic or open colorectal surgery, or any major abdominal surgeries at UPMC Shadyside * Development of post-operative ileus * Anticipation of a nasogastric (ng) tube being placed Exclusion Criteria: * Pregnant subjects * Subjects who are unable to read, write, or speak English fluently * Subjects who have a developmental or neurological disorder and are not cognitively able to provide consent
Where it's running
-
UPMC Shadyside Hospital
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Jacques E Chelly, MD, PhD, MBA — University of Pittsburgh, UPMC
- Study coordinator: Carly Riedmann, MPH
- Email: riedmannca@upmc.edu
- Phone: 412-623-4147
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
-
Using ultrasound to check nasogastric tube position
This study tests if ultrasound can quickly and safely check if a nasogastric tube is in the right place for patients after surgery.
How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.